Virtual Studio

BBC News

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I played a key role in the design and development of a Virtual Studio for BBC News, enabling a single operator to produce and broadcast live content remotely using just a laptop. This innovation allowed BBC World Service to maintain regular programming despite the challenges of lockdowns, resulting in a dramatic increase in engagement with 30 million weekly views and opening new distribution channels, particularly through YouTube..

As the creative and technical lead, I was responsible for both the visual design and the technical development of the Virtual Studio. Merging motion graphics with technical solutions, I worked on everything from the virtual environment design to the interface that allowed operators to control the broadcasts remotely. This project demonstrated how design and technology can come together to solve unprecedented production challenges in a fast-paced, remote working environment.

The success of the Virtual Studio allowed BBC World Service not only to maintain but also to significantly increase viewership during the pandemic. The project created a new distribution path through YouTube, expanding BBC’s reach to a wider, digital-first audience. The innovation behind this project was so impactful that it paved the way for several follow-up projects, marking a major shift in technology adoption within the BBC and setting a new precedent for remote broadcasting solutions.

CREDIT

Creative Directors: Matt B

Designer/Production Pipline: Alex Kessling

BBC News World Service